Ben Matana

APTC alumnus, Ben Matana attributes his professional success to his Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology qualification from the Australia-Pacific Technical College (APTC).

After completing his studies at APTC in 2015, Ben Matana from Kiribati began applying to a number of places and came across a vacancy for an automotive mechanic/technician at the Kiribati Housing Corporation (KHC).

The position was created this year, after the Kiribati Housing Corporation assessed that there was a need for an in-house mechanic who would be able to maintain and service the vehicles for the KHC.

Mr Matana was selected from the 40 applicants who applied for the much sought-after position. After taking up employment in March 2016, he impressed his employers by immediately repairing a number of vehicles that had not been running.

“I am in charge of looking after all of the corporation’s vehicles and machines. The APTC course I undertook has highly contributed towards my role. It has enabled me to do more on the job, including, diagnosing, inspecting and repairing without any supervision and having the best outcome.”

"I really enjoy my work,” he adds.

His diligent efforts in the upkeep of the organisation’s transport services have not gone unnoticed and have led to an increase in his salary. His work has also been recognised by other government bodies and departments such as the police headquarters who have approached him for his services as well.

Mr Matana says studying at APTC has provided him with more skills and a better understanding of the automotive industry.

“The training I gained at APTC enhanced my knowledge, built my capacity and prepared me well for the workplace. It has added more value. I can fix complicated problems because now I am able to diagnose and come up with new trouble shooting procedures.”

“My training has got me to where I am today, and I am now better positioned to contribute towards the Kiribati community. I am very proud to be an APTC graduate. ‘ko raba, APTC’,” Mr Matana said.

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